Click to read letter and resources in Spanish

Kahok Families,

The tragedy that occurred in Perry, Iowa, is devastating and there are no words to accurately express our sympathy for the loss of life and those injured, as well as their families and the community. Violence of this nature is a harsh reminder that safety must remain our number one priority and our district must be vigilant.

The safety and welfare of our students and staff is a top priority in our school district. Each year our safety protocols are reviewed and adapted, and new measures added. Changes and adjustments are the result of open lines of communication between law enforcement, first responders and district officials. These channels of communication allow for proper training, incident readiness and procedure changes to occur. Efforts to provide a safe learning environment are constantly evolving.

As we begin 2024, I want to remind families this is a difficult time of year as we unwind from the holidays, endure cold temperatures and look forward to spring. If you have a concern, observe a disturbing social media post or worry about an individual’s mental health, do not hesitate to communicate with school principals, staff or law enforcement. The goal is to always be proactive in helping others, and address potential risks before they arise. Our ability to look out for each other and avert a potential event is only as good as the information we get from families, students and community members. Your active involvement is a vital part of the district’s efforts to not only provide a safe environment for our schools, but to come to the aid of others.

We encourage you to call 911 if there is an imminent danger; and share non-emergency information with our principals, counselors, or local police by contacting the dispatch numbers for each community. (See attachment.)

I have also included resources to help you and your family discuss and process what occurred this past week.

Our Kahok community has always come together to stand with each other and support the needs of our school district. At this time, we must again rely on that strength to do our best for our community and our students.

Sincerely,
Mark B. Skertich Ed.D.
Superintendent

Resources for Families and the Community 

Click for printable PDF in English and Spanish

Non-Emergency Contact Information:

Collinsville Police: (618) 344-2131
Maryville Police:  (618) 344-8899
Fairmont City Police:  (618) 274-4504
Caseyville Police:  (618) 344-2151
Madison County Sheriff’s Department: (618) 692-6087
St. Clair County Sheriff’s Department: (618) 277-3505 

Emotional Wellbeing & Talking to Children About Tragedy:

• American Academy of Pediatrics: “Talking to Children about Tragedies and other News Events” (Click HERE for Spanish)
• National Institute of Mental Health:  “Helping Children and Adolescents Cope with Violence and Disasters: What Parents Can Do” (Click HERE for Spanish)
• National Association of School Psychologists: “Talking to Children About Violence:  Tips for Parents and Teachers” (English & Spanish printables)
• Child Development Institute:  “How To Talk To Kids About Violence” (PDF/English)
• Mental Health America:  “Talking To Kids About Fear And Violence” (PDF/English)

CUSD 10 Virtual Calming Room

Our social work and counseling staff maintain a website for students, staff and families to access  resources, links and advice for managing emotions and feelings: Virtual Calming Room 

The post Letter Regarding January 4 Tragedy in Iowa & School Safety appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

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ParentABLE from positive parenting education and advocacy group ParenTeach, is a ten-day curriculum to help students develop a foundational understanding of positive parenting and caregiving practices.  The web-based tools provided to teachers include a teacher’s guide, PowerPoint presentations, videos, interactive exercises, quizzes with feedback, note assists and handouts.

ParentABLE curriculum includes:

• Information about the effects of unintentional harmful parenting
• The consequences of adverse childhood experiences
• The power of resilience and positive parenting and caregiving

ParentABLE topics and techniques are evidence-based and supported.  The pilot program was developed and evaluated in partnership with Harvard and Northwestern Universities.  ParentABLE is aligned with many of the Illinois Social Emotional Learning and Health and Wellness standards for grades 9-12.

According to ParenTeach founder/CEO Katharine Bensinger:  “The curriculum includes information that defines ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and their effects on childhood development, along with the power of resilience and positive parenting and caregiver practices and competencies. The unit aims to reduce child abuse and neglect rates, break the cycle of unintentional harmful parenting, promote Relational Health, create a level of comfort with seeking future parenting and caregiving resources and support, and increase students’ understanding of empathy.”

“I advocated for this program in our school because I feel like teenagers want and need to know how to be positive caretakers.” said Hazzard, “My health class is a perfect arena to discuss and learn positive parenting skills – not only out of necessity but also to meet Illinois state health standards. ”

ParentABLE is concluding its three-year pilot program and will be offered to high schools in the State of Illinois next year through grants or for a fee. The research conducted through the pilot program will continue by collecting follow-up surveys from students in the years to come.

“I have seen my students soak up this information and open up about their own lives and families in a way they had not before. It has been an incredibly impactful unit that I would like to see continued in our health curriculum,” says Hazzard, “It is exciting to be part of a program that is working to lessen the rate of child abuse and neglect in the state of Illinois.”

The ParentABLE documentary film crew visited Collinsville High School in October 2022 to interview Mrs. Hazzard, sit-in on a health class and talk to students who have experienced the ParentABLE curriculum.  CHS student Eli Velasquez is also featured in the documentary.

Click the image below to learn more about ParentABLE and watch the documentary:

The post CHS Teacher Featured in Documentary for Parenting Curriculum appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Illinois Student Assistance Commission ISAC announces State Scholar Finalists each year. The designation is described on their website:

Students from nearly every high school in Illinois compete in the program. State Scholars can be found on the campuses of nearly 200 public and private institutions of higher education in Illinois. The combination of students’ exemplary college entrance examination scores and record high school achievement indicate an especially high potential for success in college. To be named an Illinois State Scholar is an outstanding accomplishment that will be a highlight of the recipient’s academic record.

Selection for the honor is based on ACT/SAT scores and sixth semester GPA (typically end of junior year of high school).  In any academic year, approximately 10% of all Illinois high school graduates are named State Scholars. 

To be named an Illinois State Scholar, a student must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen or meet the “undocumented student” criteria of the RISE Act
• Be a resident of Illinois
• Attend an approved high school
• Take the ACT or SAT between August 1 and June 30 (by the end of the third semester before high school graduation*)
• Perform in the top one-half of your high school class at the end of the third semester prior to graduation*, and/or score at or above the 95th percentile on the ACT or SAT
• Graduate from high school during the academic year in which you were selected as a State Scholar

Note that meeting the requirements listed above qualifies the student to be considered for this program, but does not guarantee State Scholar designation. Each year, a specific formula is established to select State Scholars.

Collinsville High School’s 2023-24 Illinois State Scholars:

Peyton Beeles
Zachary Blaha
Isabella Brand
Brandon Campbell
Breana Campbell-Westbrook
Gavin Chrisman
Isabella Cotton
Georgia Cox
Mckayla Despain
Adam Doebber
Madeline Eversmann
Matthew Falbe
Olivia Frawley
Eli Garkie
Lucas Geisen
Maleah Gilliland
Jacob Gregory
Adelyn Johnson
Aubrey Kohler
Jared Lundak
Brandon Malter
Alicia Markovich
Elizabeth Martin
Kathleen Martin
Eliza Martinez-Canseco
Grace Nagel
Brandon Nygard
Cole Patrick
Joseph Rauk
Jonathan Sewell
Jackson Smithe
Julianna Sotelo
Samuel Stuckey
Alicia Swartz
Andrew Tienes
Amber Vargas
Keira Winterich

ISAC is the state’s college access and financial aid agency.  It recognizes academic achievement by exceptional Illinois high school students annually. This year, more than 16,700 honorees join the other outstanding students who have been honored since the designation was first introduced in 1958.

“On behalf of ISAC, congratulations to all of the outstanding students selected as 2023-24* Illinois State
Scholars,” said ISAC Executive Director Eric Zarnikow. “Students and families faced numerous challenges over the last two years with remote learning, among other financial and personal difficulties. As we continue to recover from the pandemic, these academic achievements are a credit to the hard work and dedication of the student scholars and their families, and to the support provided by teachers, mentors, counselors, and communities in helping students meet their goals and find success as they advance on their education and career paths.”

*Note that the Illinois State Scholar Program announces honorees based on the year they would begin any postsecondary education, not based on the year they graduate from high school.

The Illinois State Scholar designation is a non-monetary award. Each State Scholar receives a
congratulatory letter and a Certificate of Achievement from ISAC. Additionally, awardees can download
an official Illinois State Scholar Program badge to display on their online profiles, social media platforms,
and share with their high school counselors, colleges, employers, family members and others.

Students can also utilize the ISAC Student Portal for free tools and resources to search for colleges and
scholarships, explore careers, find internships and summer jobs, apply for ISAC financial aid programs,
get quick tips about college planning and financial aid from ISAC College Minute videos, connect with First Generation Scholars Network mentors, and more. The ISAC College Q&A free text messaging service allows students and families to get answers to their college and financial aid questions sent directly via text from ISAC experts. ISAC also offers free assistance through the agency’s call center, 800-899-4722 (ISAC), and its Online Chat service.

The post Thirty-seven CHS Seniors are 23-24 Illinois State Scholars appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Maryville Community Improvement Board established the Young Citizens of the Year program is 2016 “…to recognize outstanding citizenship from the youth in our community, and to encourage students to take an active role in their communities, schools, and churches.”

The recipients were welcomed and congratulated by Maryville Mayor Craig Short.

Adelyn Johnson was nominated by Collinsville High School Counseling Department Chair Karen Olsen. Addy is the daughter of Andy and Adrienne Johnson. She is ranked at the top of her class, a varsity member of the CHS girls’ volleyball, soccer and track teams, president of the Class of 2023, member of National Honor Society and was chosen to represent CHS at the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy last year.

Counselor Karen Olsen wrote:

“Adelyn Johnson is an extraordinary young woman.  As her counselor, I have had the privilege and honor to know her for three years.  Her ever-ready smile, the thoughtfulness and care she gives to her decisions, her compassionate attitude towards others, and her humble “I Can Do” attitude are things I look forward to every time I see her.  I have been impressed by her intelligence, willingness to serve, character and inclination to go above and beyond, no matter the academic subject, sport or extracurricular activity.

Adelyn repeatedly strives to be the best in all areas of her life, not just academics.  She is a role model for all students.  Adelyn isn’t simply a member of clubs and organizations; she is a leader and organizer.  One thing that stands out to me in her involvement is that she saw a need in the school and didn’t just talk about it.  Instead she sought out resources and advocated for a new school club on mental health.  While it is still in the planning stages, she is the reason our school is now in the process of starting this organization, whose main purpose to increase awareness and decrease the stigma of mental health problems at CHS.”

Ally Richter was nominated by Maryville Elementary School teacher Brittany Evans  and Principal Carmen Loemker. She is the daughter of Paul and Lindsey Richter.

Teacher Brittany Evans wrote:

“Ally Richter is such a sweet and thoughtful girl. She is very kind to her peers and is always helping in any way that she can.  She helps keep other students on task when they are working in a group.  She offers to help the teacher with passing out and collecting papers, and doing other important jobs.  She often gives up her recess to clean up trash off of the playground without being asked.  Even more amazingly, she encourages others to help keep the playground clean.  In the classroom she helps clean and organize often.  I think it is really remarkable that she takes the initiative to make her classroom and school playground a better place.  She is a shining example of a good citizen at Maryville Elementary!”

Principal Carmen Loemker wrote:

“Ally has a wonderful attitude about school.  She never complains about hard work and sets a great example of positivity for other students.  She has attention to detail and willingly fixes and learns from mistakes to further her learning.  Her attitude is contagious and sets her apart from her peers.  We are every fortunate to have such a wonderful first grader!”

The post Maryville Honors 2022 Young Citizen Award Recipients appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Español

Kahok Families,

We understand the stress an adaptive pause to in-person learning puts on everyone.  Our district appreciates the flexibility of community partners and families as we move to remote learning for the next three days.  

Attached is a summary of policies, expectations and resources applicable during the adaptive pause occurring this week on Tuesday (January 11), Wednesday (January 12) and Thursday (January 13).  Remember, Friday (January 14) is a Teacher Institute and Monday, (January 17) is the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday, so there are no classes on those days. 

This information is also posted on www.kahoks.org.  You should hear from your child(ren)’s teacher(s) and/or school with class- and building-specific instructions.  Please reach out to them if you have any questions.

The new year may have started with uphill challenges, however, I am confident if we keep our focus on our students, we will get through the current trials thanks to the support of our families and the dedication of our staff. Stay healthy. 

Sincerely,

Mark B. Skertich, Ed.D.
Superintendent

Remote Learning during Adaptive Pause

Students will engage in learning activities facilitated by their teachers. The lessons will focus on essential course skills and content appropriate for an abbreviated day of remote learning.  School buildings will be open daily and teachers and staff will be in attendance to prepare and deliver lessons using available classroom technology equipment. 

Teacher Availability

Teachers will periodically monitor their email and respond to questions during their school hours.  Teachers will be available outside of these hours by appt. only. If you need an appointment please reach out to your teacher.  Teachers will use various means to stay connected with students, including: webpage updates, Google Classroom updates, ClassDojo, emails, phone calls, Remind updates, etc., to help the instructor connect with, reassure, and provide students with feedback and encouragement. 

Student Attendance

Attendance will be taken daily using methods designated by the teacher or school.  

Live Video Conferencing Sessions

Google Meet will be one of the primary video conferencing tools used to host live class sessions in communication with students during Remote Learning Days. If a student is unable to attend a live session, the classroom teachers may provide either notes or a recorded version of the session. 

• Elementary students (Grades K-6):  will include in their morning announcement the times students are to log in for live instruction.
• Middle and high school students (Grades 7-12): staff will use the abbreviated class times when scheduling synchronous (live) sessions. The following schedule will apply:

CMS and CHS Daily Schedule

Students with Special Education Services

• Students receiving special education services in Grades 7-12 will follow their class schedule outlined above for CMS and CHS.
• Students receiving special education services in Grades K-6 will be expected to attend Google Meets set up by their assigned classroom teachers.  
• Students who receive special education services in the General Education setting will continue to receive instruction and assignments from their general education teacher(s).
• Students who receive special education services in the general education and special education setting will receive instruction and assignments and activities from their general education teacher(s) and from the special education teacher(s).
• Students who receive special education services in the Special Education Setting will receive all of their instruction and assignments and activities from their special education teacher(s). 
• Related Services: Speech, Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Adapted PE- Students receiving related services per their IEPs will be communicated with on an individual basis from their related service providers regarding service delivery model and schedule.

IEP Meetings

Scheduled IEP meetings will continue to take place via Google Meets. IEP Coordinators will send out emails with the google meets link and invitation. If for some reason the IEP meeting would need to be rescheduled, all IEP Team members will be notified as soon as possible. Please reach out to your child’s special education teacher/case manager with any questions. 

Grading

Students will be expected to complete all assignments, assessments, and projects in a timely manner. All assignments will be graded when appropriate and students will be provided with feedback on each graded assignment. 

Technology

All students have been provided with a Chromebook and charger for remote instruction. Students who do not have adequate access to the Internet will be provided with a hotspot/router. Here are instructions on connecting to WiFi: English or Spanish. Please contact your building principal if you have connectivity issues. 

Use this link for a list of school-by-school contact information for student/parent technical support. 

COVID 19 Testing Availability

If your student is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, and you would like them to be tested for COVID at school, please contact your student’s school health office to request an appointment. Appointments will be made based upon availability on a first come, first served basis and will only occur during the School Health Staff’s contractual hours.  Use this link for contact information. 

Child Care/Latchkey

The district is partnering with the Collinsville, Maryville and Troy YMCA to allow families access to child care and/or latchkey service regardless if student attendance is in-person or remote during the adaptive pause.  Y Club will be offered from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm on January 11th, 12th, and 13th at Renfro Elementary for current students.  School’s Out Camp will be held on the 14th and 17th at the YMCA.  Interested families should contact the CMT YMCA at 618-346-5600.

Food Service

FREE student meal service will be provided to  students (ages 1-18) on Remote Learning Days during the Adaptive Pause in CUSD 10.  We encourage families to take advantage of this offer to ensure children are fed.  (Click HERE for a printable PDF of food service information and map.)

On Remote Learning Days during the current adaptive pause, meal service will be available Tuesday (Jan 11), Wednesday (Jan 12) and Thursday (Jan 13).  Since January 14 and 15 were scheduled non-attendance days, food service is NOT available on those days.  

Curbside Pick-up: Bagged meals will be available via curbside pickup from 7 am-12 pm, at the following locations:

• Collinsville High School (Back of School by Dock)
• Dorris Intermediate School
• Kreitner Elementary School
• Webster Elementary School (Back of School)

Delivery Route Pick-Up Locations: First Student school buses will deliver meals designated neighborhoods using the following routes and schedule:

The post Information for Navigating Adaptive Pause Jan 11-13 2022 appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

While our plan specifies guidelines for our staff, students and buildings to follow, everyone’s health and safety is dependent on each individual. To review the complete Wellness Plan for Return to Learn in the 2021-22 school year, see the district’s full Return to Learn document.  For information and resources pertaining to COVID-19, click HERE.

Health Certification

Up-to-date COVID-19 requirements and policies are outlined in the latest issue of the CUSD 10 2021-22 Return to Learn Plan.  Click here to read the complete plan. 

Please note the following:

Masks are recommended to be worn indoors by all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to Pre-K-12 schools who are two years of age or older and medically able to tolerate a mask, regardless of vaccination status.

In order to attend school, all students must be screened by their parents for symptoms of COVID-19 and other criteria.  All staff must also screen themselves for this criteria prior to reporting to work.  By attending school, all students and staff are certifying that they meet the following criteria:

1. They do not have a temperature 100.4℉ or higher.
2. They are not taking fever-reducing medicines, such as those that contain aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen, in order to reduce his/her fever.
3. They have not been directed to self-quarantine by a healthcare provider.
4. They have not been directed to self-quarantine by the County or State Department of Public Health.
5. They do not have any of the following symptoms:

Students and staff who tested positive for COVID-19 or have COVID-19 symptoms are to follow the CDC guidelines to determine when they can return to school. Please see the COVID-19 Return to School Flowchart below. (Click HERE for flowchart in Spanish)

At-School Point-of-Care Rapid COVID-19 Antigen Testing for Students & Staff

For more information and a link to parent consent form,  please see “Rapid Point-of-Care Antigen Testing” on page 12 of the district’s Return to Learn Plan. (English) OR (Spanish) 

Click the image below to see information and step-by-step videos produced by CUSD 10 Health Staff:

IDPH Guidance

Use THIS LINK for Illinois Department of Health COVID-19 guidance for schools.

COVID-19 Training for Students

Physical Distancing

CUSD #10 students and staff are expected to maintain physical distancing to the greatest extent possible keeping in mind the recommendation of 6 feet apart  throughout the school day. Signage reminding staff, visitors and students to maintain physical distancing is placed at all entrances, in classrooms and throughout other common areas.

Face Coverings

CUSD #10 understands that physical distancing will not be possible for all circumstances. Students and staff are required to properly wear masks.  A student’s refusal or repeated failure to wear a face covering will result in the student being placed on 100% Remote Learning.  Please note:  Some public health studies have determined a “gator” style face scarf is NOT as effective as a mask.  Students and staff will not be permitted to wear a gator unless a mask is worn beneath it.  

Hand Hygiene

Frequent hand washing and hand sanitizing is key to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.  Students and staff will be instructed in the proper hand-washing technique.  Everyone must avoid touching their mouth, eyes or nose as much as possible. Staff and students are required to use hand sanitizer upon entering the classroom each time. Hand sanitizer is provided by the District. Each building has signage reminding everyone of the need for proper hand hygiene.

The post COVID-19 Health appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Hazel offers virtual doctor visits accessible both from the school nurse’s office and from home. The service is available beginning May 5, 2021 to all CHS and CMS students: those with and without primary care physicians; and those with and without insurance.

The Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 Board of Education approved the partnership with Hazel Health at the April 19, 2021 regular monthly meeting.

Hazel is an external, independent healthcare service that provides physical and behavioral healthcare to over 1.5 million students. CHS and CMS parents can opt-in to Hazel by submitting a signed consent form.  If a student isn’t feeling well during the school day, school health staff can facilitate a telehealth visit.  In addition, families who are enrolled in the program can utilize a video doctor visit from home, even during summer break.

“We are pleased to offer an additional service to help our high school and middle school families access health care when needed,” said Collinsville CUSD 10 Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich, “When students aren’t feeling well, they miss school. We are making doctor visits available to CHS and CMS through Hazel Health to minimize lost academic time as well as disruptions to our families already hectic schedules.”

Hazel provides extended student health services including:

• Medical treatment: For stomach aches, headaches, sprained ankles, asthma concerns, and everything in between
• Medication: Prescriptions written or over-the-counter provided at school when needed
• Coordination: With family physician and school

Hazel’s on-demand visits utilize board-certified doctors, physician assistants and nurses who can dispense care in the student’s preferred language. Hazel provides families with referrals, resources and the follow-up to ensure healthy outcomes.

CUSD 10 Director of Special Education Alison Underwood led the launch of Hazel in Collinsville schools.  According to Underwood, “This will allow us the opportunity to provide another layer of resources and wrap around services for all CHS and CMS students. Hazel is a virtual health care platform accessible for all students regardless of insurance or ability to pay.”

“Students will be able to access this service from home or in the nurse’s office if deemed appropriate. Hazel can diagnose a student, recommend over the counter medications and/or prescriptions before the student even leaves the nurse’s office,” said Underwood.

Hazel offers an additional tool for school nurses and health staff if a student exhibits symptoms of an illness at school.  If an at-school telehealth visit seems warranted, the parent/guardian will be contacted by the school.  Following the visit, parents receive a detailed update.

CUSD 10 Head Nurse Lisa Sabatino said, “Our health staff members are excited to partner with Hazel Health to better serve our student population.  It continues to be our goal to keep students well and in school when possible, as well as to assist parents with finding appropriate healthcare resources.  Hazel will extend our school health reach allowing additional health professionals to diagnose, provide over the counter meds, and send prescriptions to the family’s preferred pharmacy when appropriate.  Overall, Hazel Health will allow us to provide families with quicker access to healthcare in order to get students well and ready to resume learning.”

Find out more and sign-up for Hazel Health Services through CUSD 10:

CHS and CMS families can sign-up for services by creating an account and providing consent for their student to be seen by the Hazel licensed providers.

For information and a link to the consent form, visit the Hazel/Kahoks website:  https://my.hazel.co/kahoks/info

Here’s a brief video for families explaining how Hazel Health works:

List of Services Available:

Use this QR Code to view more information for families considering Hazel Health services:

The post CUSD 10 Introduces Partnership with Hazel Health appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

The Fairmont City Library Center is hosting a PCs for People distribution and e-cycling event on Friday, April 16, 2021 from 4-7 p.m. PCs for People assists individuals and families that meet eligibility requirements with affordable computer hardware, computer repair, internet service and learning resources.

This event is open to ALL eligible residents in CUSD 10 communities.  Registration is not required but strongly recommended.  Being registered will help people move through the lines faster.

The Fairmont City Library Center is located at 4444 Collinsville Road.

This is a DRIVE THRU event.  To avoid traffic issues, the Fairmont City police will help direct traffic.  Vehicles MUST enter at 111 and Maryland Avenue to get in line.  

Click HERE to see eligibility qualifications and requirements 

Community members and businesses can e-cycle office and computer equipment that meets the requirements below:

The post Fairmont City Library Hosts PCs for People Event appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Left to right: Michelle Stutts (BOE), Jane Soehlke (BOE), Gary Kusmierczak (BOE), Dr. Dennis Craft (BOE), Dr. Brad Skertich (Superintendent), Derek Turner (Director of Technology), Mayor Michael Suarez (Fairmont City), Ben Fischer (LTE Specialist STEPcg0, Ed Walton (CEO Stepcg), Gary Peccola (BOE President), Todd Kelly SVP of Solutions Engineering STEPcg), Dan Gregory (Private LTE Program Director STEPcg)

Collinsville, Illinois – March 5, 2021 – Today, Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 launched a Private LTE Network to bring internet connectivity to approximately 500 students in the Fairmont City and State Park communities.  

Collinsville CUSD 10 partnered with IT solutions provider STEPcg to construct a private LTE network which utilizes technologies from Nokia and Cambium Networks. The network is among the first in the US built by a school district. 

CUSD 10 Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich said, “The pandemic heightened the fact not all of our students had connectivity and exposed the need to ensure all students had equal access whether at home or at school.  Internet connectivity ensures all students are able to complete assignments, conduct research, interact with classmates and teachers, apply for scholarships, seek employment, and participate in everyday occurrences as simple as seeking the answer to a random question. The need and rationale were easy.  The ‘how’ took some time.” 

The district explored many different options prior to deciding on private LTE; including hotspots, routers on school buses, routers on telephone poles and paying for internet providers to install service in affected areas.  

“The district’s Board of Education was 100% committed to breaking down the connectivity barrier,” said Skertich, “All that needed to be done was for Derek Turner, our Director of Technology, to find a cost effective and sustainable internet solution.”

Turner said, “As we were investigating different possibilities, I began asking about private LTE. In early 2020, the FCC had approved use by private companies, cities and schools.  I was put in touch with STEPcg who helped me understand the ins and outs of private LTE and put together a bold plan to conquer the connectivity gap in our community.”

CARES stimulus funding provided the resources to make the $300,000 network a reality.  

Planning began in late March 2020, according to Turner.  By August, STEPcg constructed a temporary solution and conducted testing to determine any flaws in the system. During September, plans were reworked to provide more coverage and better reliability.  By December 2020, construction was completed on a broadcast tower at Kreitner Elementary School, and in early 2021, microcell installs began at Kreitner Elementary, the Mounds Water District tower, and Fairmont City locations.  Installation was finalized and testing completed in February, enabling the network to go “live” in March.

“Our district made a commitment to technology that started over 20 years ago with a goal of putting computers in every classroom. We continued by adding Promethean boards into the classrooms, The next step was to get Chromebooks into the hands of every student. With the 1:1 initiative that was phased in over a number of years, that goal was achieved last school year,” said Collinsville CUSD 10 Board of Education President Gary Peccola. 

Peccola continued, “However, the commitment wasn’t just focused on computers. Our fiber WAN project connects all of the schools and buildings throughout our district and provides internet access to all students while they are at school, but not all students have internet access when they are at home. With the construction of this LTE broadband tower, we are taking another step forward to meet the connectivity needs of students in the State Park and Fairmont City areas.”

Technology Behind the Network

STEPcg is an award-winning IT engineering firm specializing in solutions powered by strategic experts and best-of-breed technologies that guide their clients through complex IT challenges.

“The COVID-19 pandemic highlights the Digital Divide for many students and communities across America, the lack of access to affordable high-speed broadband connectivity,” said 

STEPcg CEO, Ed Walton. “Instead of having to drive to a restaurant or park for access to the internet, the Collinsville school district is leading the way by providing an innovative solution utilizing a private LTE network that enables safe, high-speed connectivity in the students’ homes.”

The centerpiece of the network is an LTE Broadband Tower constructed at Kreitner Elementary School which ties into the district’s internet service. In all, the network includes four Nokia CBRS microcell installations that provide approximately 4 square miles of coverage in the communities of Fairmont City and State Park. The result allows students to have equal access to school instructional programs from home. 

“We are pleased to partner with STEPcg to help Collinsville school district bridge the digital divide for students challenged with remote learning during this difficult time. Nokia’s industry leading private wireless solution complemented by STEPcg’s expertise to design, deploy and operate wireless networks was critical for the success of this project,” said Vikas Trehan, Nokia’s Head of Partner Sales in North America.

Matt Young, Vice President of North America Enterprise Sales, Nokia Cloud and Networking Services, said, “This use case in education illustrates the benefits of private wireless for school districts across the country. Nokia DAC (NDAC) enables fast and reliable connectivity to empower students in this challenging digital divide. We look forward to helping Collinsville school district accelerate on its path to a digital future for students, where 4G/pLTE capacity and performance provide a future-proofed infrastructure that enhances an educational institution’s capabilities for remote learning.” 

“Cambium Networks is extremely pleased to supply our wireless solutions to STEPcg for this Collinsville school district project.  Connecting the unconnected and under-connected has taken on unprecedented importance during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Bryan Sheppeck, SVP, Global Sales at Cambium Networks, “Twenty-twenty accelerated an emerging trend: ‘if it can be wireless, it will be wireless’ due to its intrinsic ease and speed of deployment. STEPcg and team have demonstrated once again the economic and performance benefits of wireless solutions.”

About the Technology Partners

STEPcg was founded in 2014 and has become one of the fastest growing technology firms in the Midwest. Their portfolio enables enterprises with solutions for wireline, wireless, cellular, cloud, security, collaboration and managed services. STEPcg is a privately held company headquartered in Covington, Kentucky. STEPcg is Where Innovation Meets Execution.

Nokia creates the critical networks and technologies to bring together the world’s intelligence, across businesses, cities, supply chains and societies.  With Nokia’s commitment to innovation and technology leadership, driven by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, we deliver networks at the limits of science across mobile, infrastructure, cloud, and enabling technologies.

Cambium Networks delivers wireless communications that work for businesses, communities and cities worldwide. They work with their Cambium certified Connected Partners to deliver purpose-built networks for service providers, enterprise, industrial, and government connectivity solutions in urban, suburban, and rural environments, with wireless that just works.

The post Private LTE Network Brings Internet Connectivity to Students appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

BSU members identified, researched and wrote about prominent African Americans and their accomplishments. Each school day during February, a different person from the list will be shared with CHS students during Morning Announcements.  The information was also shared with other schools in the district, so principals could incorporate it into announcements or other Black History Month activities.

BSU members will decorate CHS with posters and decorations; and sponsor a door decorating contest to involve all classrooms in the month-long celebration.  Black History Month buttons ($3 each) were sold and theme days will be announced throughout February.

To allow students to fully participate when remote learning, the BSU built a slide show with links to provide more information.  As students view the Black History Month presentation they can use the embedded links to learn more.

Click the image below to view the slide show.

Videos Produced by Black Student Union:

In this video, Sean Brown, vice president of the CHS Black Student Union, interviews Dr. Eric L Johnson, principal of Winnetonka High School in the North Kansas City School District, about the importance of honoring Black history.

The Black Student Union’s second 2021 Black History Month focuses on entrepreneurship.  BSU member and young entrepreneur Aaliyah Bell highlights well-known trailblazers and interviews Entrepreneur and Intellectual Property Attorney Mia LeFlore.

Learn more about the people highlighted in this year’s Black History Month Celebration of Excellence:

Notable African American Women:

Harriet Tubman was an American abolitionist and political activist. Born into slavery, Tubman escaped and subsequently made some 13 missions to rescue approximately 70 enslaved people, using the network of antislavery activists and safe houses known as the Underground Railroad. Harriet Tubman also worked for the Union Army as an armed scout and spy. She was the first woman to lead an armed expedition in the war, she guided the raid at Combahee Ferry, which liberated more than 700 enslaved people.

Mary Mcleod Bethune was an American educator, stateswoman, philanthropist, humanitarian, civil rights activist and advisor to five different US Presidents. She was the founder of the McLeod Hospital in Daytona Beach Florida, the Literary and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls, and Bethune-Cookman College.

Ida B. Wells was an American investigative journalist, educator, and early leader in the civil rights movement. She was also one of the founders of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Mrs. Wells used her writing talents and her newspaper to publish pamphlets against lynching. She was awarded a Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts in fighting lynching.

First Lady Michelle LaVaughn Robinson Obama is a lawyer, writer and the wife of the 44th President, Barack Obama. She is the first African-American First Lady of the United States. Through her four main initiatives, she became a role model for women and an advocate for healthy families, service members and their families, higher education, and international adolescent girls education.

Week 2: Notable African American Inventors, including:

George Carruthers is an astrophysicist who spent much of his career working with the Space Science Division of the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C. He’s most famous for creating the ultraviolet camera/spectrograph, which NASA used when it launched Apollo 16 in 1972. Carruthers was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2003.

Dr. Patricia Bath revolutionized the field of ophthalmology when she invented a device that refined laser cataract surgery, called the Laserphaco Probe. She patented the invention in 1988, and today she’s recognized as the first African American woman doctor to receive a medical patent.

Mark Dean is a computer scientist & engineer who worked for IBM, where he led the team that designed the ISA bus—the hardware interface that allows multiple devices like printers, modems and keyboards to be plugged into a computer. He also helped to invent the first color computer monitor and the first gigahertz computer chip. Dean was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 1997.

Dr. Shirley Jackson is a theoretical physicist. She helped develop technologies that led to the invention of the portable fax, touch-tone telephone, solar cells, fiber optic cables and the technology enabling caller ID and call waiting. Dr. Jackson is also the first black woman to graduate with a Ph.D. from M.I.T., and the first to be named chair of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. In 2016, President Obama presented Dr. Jackson with the National Medal of Science.

Week 3: African American Pioneer Groups, including:

The Tuskegee Airmen were the first black military aviators in the U.S. Army Air Corps. Trained at the Tuskegee Army Air Field in Alabama, they flew more than 15,000 individual sorties in Europe and North Africa during World War II. Their impressive performance earned them more than 150 Distinguished Flying Crosses, and helped encourage the eventual integration of the U.S. armed forces. Before the Tuskegee Airmen, no African-American had been a U.S. military pilot.

Negro League Baseball got its start thanks to the increasing popularity of two things after the Civil War: baseball and segregation. The National Association of Amateur Baseball Players rejected African American membership in 1867, and in 1876, owners of the professional National League adopted a “gentleman’s agreement” to keep Black players out. Subsequent African American players found their greatest opportunities with traveling teams until 1920, when Rube Foster launched the Negro National League. It launched with eight teams: Chicago American Giants, Chicago Giants, Cuban Stars, Dayton Marcos, Detroit Stars, Kansas City Monarchs, Indianapolis ABCs and the St. Louis Giants. Some of the stars of the Negro Leagues are Satchel Paige, Josh Gibson and Cool Papa Bell.

African American Pioneers of Hollywood: Black Hollywood History started when movies started screening across America in 1896 shortly after the Supreme Court sanctioned racism in the Separate But Equal ruling. Movies were the principal medium to communicate news, social customs and visual entertainment to millions of Americans each week. Thus, Hollywood movies shaped America’s perception of African Americans. In 1905, most African-Americans portrayed in Hollywood films were white actors in blackface. The actors in blackface would portray African American men as slow talking, dim witted and lazy. In the 1930’s when African Americans were finally allowed to participate in films, the roles they were given were mainly stereotypical, servant or musical roles. In the late 1940’s African Americans were finally starting to get better movie rolls, which jump-started the careers of many famous actors such as Sidney Poitier, Dorothy Dandridge, Harry Belafonte, and more.

Children of the Civil Rights Movement: In 1954 the United States Supreme Court ruled segregation in the school setting was against the law. Brown vs. The Board of Education was the landmark case that made this ruling possible. However, defeating segregation would be a much harder fight than anticipated. In 1957 when nine African American students would attempt to integrate Central High School in Little Rock Arkansas, they would be stopped at the front door by the national guard, under the order of the Arkansas Governor. It took President Eisenhower sending in federal troops for the students to be allowed into the school. Two years later, six year old Ruby Bridges would join the civil rights movement by integrating her elementary school. She was escorted to school every day that year by federal marshals due to the crowds of people waiting for her. Only one teacher agreed to teach her, and all the other students were removed from her class. She ate lunch and played at recess with her teacher only.

Week 4: New Generation Civil Rights Pioneers, including:

Stacey Abrams is an American politician, lawyer, voting rights activist, and author who served in the Georgia House of Representatives from 2007 to 2017, serving as minority leader from 2011 to 2017. In 2018, Mrs. Abrams founded Fair Fight Action, an organization to address voter suppression. Her efforts have been widely credited with boosting voter turnout in Georgia during the 2020 election.

Tamika Mallory is an American activist. She was one of the leading organizers of the 2017 Women’s March, for which she and her three other co-chairs were recognized in Time magazine’s 100 influential people edition. Ms. Mallory is also the founder of Until Freedom, a social justice organization.

S. Lee Merritt esq. is a federal civil rights attorney and activist. Mr. Merritt is a graduate of Morehouse University, a Historically Black College/University (HBCU) in Atlanta Georgia. He started his career with the Cochran Firm before going into private practice. Mr Merritt was the attorney for the families of Ahmaud Arbrey, George Floyd and Atatiana Jefferson.

Joanna Kelly, sponsor of the CHS BSU said, “Thank you Kahok family for your participation in this very important celebration of African American achievements and history. History, and even present events have shown us, we can do anything if we work together. In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King: ‘The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.'”

Watch for information on more Black History Month activities sponsored by the Multicultural Kahoks!

The post CHS BSU Offers Resources for 2021 Black History Month appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

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Kahok Families,

The school year has been anything but conventional since August as our students have transitioned in and out of various  learning settings.  While we prepared for this throughout the summer internally, and continually shared information with families regarding what to expect, it doesn’t become reality until each change occurs.  At that point, regardless whether the shift is to  something we’ve already experienced or to something new, the change adds additional stress to our families, students and staff.   

Everyone’s efforts have collectively allowed our students to receive face to face, live or recorded instruction, as well as social emotional support, as we navigate this pandemic.  We are beyond grateful for the passion and dedication demonstrated for our students, and never take these efforts for granted.    

We will transition to Full Remote learning beginning Monday, December 7 until our scheduled Winter Break begins on December 23rd.  Over the next few weeks, the district will evaluate the learning setting most appropriate for the start of 2nd semester in January.  The impact of family gatherings that occur over Winter Break, and how they may impact the health of our staff and students, will factor into the district’s next steps.  A plan will be finalized and provided to families the week of December 21st.

Although we will not have students in our buildings the last 12 school days this semester, we are still asking families to communicate with your child(ren)’s respective school(s) if they test positive, are symptomatic, or considered a close contact with a positive COVID-19 case.  This information will allow the district to continually monitor the health of our students and staff and drive district and building-specific learning setting decisions for the second semester. Please visit the district’s COVID-19 Dashboard that will be updated on our website each Friday.  

Nothing about this situation has been easy, but our Kahok family of  Educators has – and continues to – come up with incredible ways to help educate our students during a pandemic. Please check out the resources shared on our Learning Resources/Help website page. You will find links to resources recommended or created by CUSD 10 staff to provide you and your child(ren) with additional support and ideas for creative online learning.  

While you’re there, take a few minutes to visit the district’s virtual STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Room.  The site provides countless activities children can do at home individually or with their entire family.  Move your cursor throughout the page and over each item, you will be amazed at what is available.  As a side note, make sure you find the “StoryBots” musical take on the sun, moon, earth and solar system.  It is equally enjoyable, as it is educational for all ages!

Finally, you should have received information regarding the Rapid Point-of-Care Antigen Testing program we will begin administering in the second semester to students and staff who exhibit COVID-19  symptoms. There is complete information about the program, including the parent/guardian prior consent form, on our COVID-19 Health page. The page also covers important COVID-19 information, the daily student health certification checklist and Illinois Department of Health exclusion chart.  

Please be safe, wear a mask, wash your hands, and social distance.  Don’t forget to wear your purple and show your Kahok Pride.  Please be safe!   

Sincerely,

Mark B. Skertich Ed.D.
Superintendent

The post December 4, 2020 Letter to Families from Dr. Skertich appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

This year’s COVID-19 public health crisis made the CUSD 10 STREAM Room a lonely place for Mrs. Stuppi, so she is finding new ways to bring her lessons and experiments to elementary students in our district.

The STREAM Room – located at Webster Elementary, but available to all CUSD 10 elementary students – houses an array of  hands-on learning resources for teachers to borrow.  It was designed for distance instruction,  as well as in-person visits, so learning can take place at any school…and now, any student’s home.

Mrs. Stuppi and CUSD 10 Title I director Angie Schneidewind put their minds together to determine how the STREAM Room’s resources could benefit students in remote and hybrid learning this year.  The result is individual at-home science kits containing instructions and materials to accomplish several experiments and activities.

The contents were purchased with Title I funds.  Title I schools in the district received individually bagged kits with instructions and materials the day prior to Thanksgiving break; after break, non-Title schools will receive kits with printed instructions to perform the activities.  The kits include four STEM activities and four science experiments.

Mrs. Stuppi – with some volunteer help – assembled each of the kits, including pre-measuring and sorting individual materials for the Title I kits.  She organized each school’s kits into boxes labeled by classroom to make distribution effortless for teachers on the receiving end.  The goal was to have the kits in student’s hands in time for cold weather and holiday breaks.

Virtual STREAM Room

Mrs. Stuppi has also created a Virtual STREAM Room filled with STEM based activities, art lessons, stories, virtual field trips and more – including video directions to go along with the at-home kit activities.  Students and parents can visit the Virtual STREAM Room 24/7 and discover new lessons and fun things to do.

Here is a list of the experiments/activities and all the materials that are included in the kits:

STEM Activities:

• Origami creation
• Fly a paper airplane
• Recycle creations
• Straw rockets
• Build a catapult
• Create a parachute

Science experiments:

• Fireworks in a jar
• Balloon magic
• Dancing rice
• Melting rainbow

Materials Included in Title I Kits:

The post K-4 STREAM Kits Provide At-Home Learning Materials appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Assistant Superintendent and Director of Student Services Bradley Hyre introduced the new process:

“As we continue with Remote Learning in Unit 10 for the remainder of the current school year, we look forward to the time when we are able to have staff and students in schools for the 2020-2021 school year.  Like many school districts across the country, Collinsville CUSD 10 is adapting to the ever-changing environment during the COVID-19 pandemic.  To help protect the health and safety of our families, we are excited to offer a convenient Remote Online Enrollment Opportunity for the Class of 2033 (next year’s Kindergarten students).

The Kindergarten Online Enrollment application platform will allow parents/guardians a convenient method to enroll their student into the Collinsville School District using a Personal Computer, Smartphone or Tablet.  We’ve been working very hard during this difficult time to best serve our students and families while adhering to the guidance from the County Health Departments, the Illinois State Board of Education and the Center for Disease Control regarding educational issues related to the virus.”

Kindergarten Online Enrollment Opens May 11, 2020

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Children must be at least five years old on or before September 1st to be enrolled in kindergarten.

Beginning on May 11, 2020 families will be able to enroll Kindergarten students for the 2020-2021 school year ONLINE through Skyward Family Access. If you do not already have a Skyward Family Access account, please create an account by clicking here New Student Enrollment Account Request to sign up for an account and begin the enrollment process.  Please note that a valid email address is required.  If you do not have a valid email address, you may obtain a free one through Gmail, Yahoo mail or Outlook.  If you currently have a student attending school in the Collinsville Unit 10 School District, please use your Skyward Login to complete the New Student Online Enrollment Application.  SEE the NSOE Online Enrollment Guide for assistance (https://www.kahoks.org/parents/enrollment/).

For step-by-step instructions:

CUSD 10 Kindergarten Online Enrollment Parent Guide

Inscripción en línea para Kindergarten CUSD 10 Guía para padres

If your question is not answered within the guide, contact the Student Services Department at enrollment@cusd.kahoks.org

NOTE:  Students entering Kindergarten for the 2020-2021 school year who are currently attending preschool in Unit 10 are NOT required to re-enroll in the school District.  Students will be placed in Kindergarten in the student’s school attendance area based upon enrolled residence address.

If you do not have a student attending school in the Collinsville Unit 10 School District, please request a temporary Skyward Login and Password by clicking here New Student Enrollment: Account Request. 

If you currently have a student attending school in the Collinsville Unit 10 School District, please use your current Skyward Login to complete the New Student Online Enrollment Application.

 As you are completing the enrollment process, you will have the opportunity to scan and attach (as pdf or photo) the required documents as part of the enrollment application. This step is required to complete the enrollment application. 

• Parent/Guardian Photo ID
• Child’s Birth Certificate
• Parent/Guardian Proof of Residence within the CUSD10 School Boundary (Evidence from Category I and Category II – See Document Attached).

 Additional Documents to Provide if Applicable

• Parenting plan/Court order
• Proof of guardianship (or completed Affidavit) if the child is living with an adult other than the legal guardian(s).
• Foster Parent Placement Forms

The 2020-2021 Kindergarten Enrollment Packet with important information for your Kindergarten student, is available on the District Parent Resources/Enrollment page under Related Documents/Kindergarten Enrollment.

Enrollment of Kindergarten Students to the Collinsville School District

Students NEW to the Collinsville School District are required to enroll ONLINE via the Skyward Family Access Portal.

During the Online Enrollment Process, parents/guardians will be required to upload:

1. A photo ID
2. 2. A certified or registered birth certificate for the student at the time of enrollment.  (Note:  If a birth certificate is unavailable, the parent may present other reliable proof of the child’s identify and age that is supported by a sworn statement explaining why the birth certificate is not available (ie. Passport, Visa or other governmental documentation of a child’s identity).
3. Proof of residency within the District by providing the required number of documents from each of the following categories: 

Category I (One document showing proper name and address is required)

• Most recent residential property tax bill and proof of payment, e.g., canceled check or Form 1098 (homeowners)
• Mortgage papers (homeowners)
• Signed and dated lease and proof of last month’s payment, e.g., canceled check or receipts (renters)
• Letter from manager and proof of last month’s payment, e.g., canceled check or receipt (trailer park residents)
• Letter of residence from landlord in lieu of lease (7:60-AP2, E1)
• Letter of residence to be used when the person seeking to enroll a student is living with a District resident (7:60-AP2, E2)

Category II (Two documents showing proper name and address are required)

• Current Illinois Driver’s license or temporary Illinois Driver’s license
• Consular Identification card, Green card, Visa, U.S. Passport or current State Identification card
• Current Vehicle registration
• Current Voter registration
• Most recent (within 60 days) utility bill, e.g., gas, electric, cable television, trash, water (No cell phones)
• Current major credit card bill
• Current public aid card
• Current homeowners/renters insurance policy and premium payment receipt
• Receipt for moving van rental

Anyone with a Custody Order Seeking to Enroll a Student

Presents court order, agreement, judgment, or decree that awards or gives custody of the student to any person (including divorce decrees awarding custody to one or both parents).

Non-Parent Seeking to Enroll a Student

Must complete and sign Evidence of Non-Parent’s Custody, Control, and Responsibility of a Student form, Affidavit of Enrollment and Residency, along with District approval.  (This must be completed on a yearly basis).  School Board exhibit 7:60-AP2, E3

IMPORTANT:

The School District reserves the right to evaluate the evidence presented, and merely presenting the items listed in this Procedure does not guarantee admission.

WARNING:

If a student is determined to be a nonresident of the District for whom tuition must be charged, the persons enrolling the student are liable for nonresident tuition from the date the student began attending a District school as a nonresident pursuant to Illinois School Code (105 ILCS 5/10-20.12a(a).  A person who knowingly enrolls or attempts to enroll in this School District on a tuition-free basis a student known by that person to be a nonresident of the District is guilty of a Class C misdemeanor, except in very limited situations as defined in State law (105 ILCS 5/10-20.12b(e).  A person who knowingly or willfully presents to the School District any false information regarding the residency of a student for the purpose of enabling that student to attend any school in that District without the payment of a nonresident tuition charge is guilty of a Class C misdemeanor (105 ILCS 5/10-20.12b(f).

The post Online Kindergarten Enrollment for 2020-21 Opens May 11 appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Resources Recommended or Created by CUSD 10 Staff to Assist Families

Parents (K-6):  Get Help with Online Education Programs

Are you or your child struggling with Google Classroom, Google Slides or one of the online educational programs the teacher is using? Check out this YouTube playlist featuring videos created by CUSD 10 staff:

Click for Collinsville CUSD 10 Online Program Tech Help

Accessing Elementary School Online Programs

Because the educational needs of schools and students in our district vary, not all students use all of the same online programs.  Therefore, the best way to access programs that your child uses is through Clever.

Use this link to access Clever

If your child uses other programs that you do not see in his/her Clever account, please access those programs through your child’s school website or the teacher’s Google classroom.  If you are unable to find the program, please contact your child’s teacher.

Recurosos de ESL

¿Necesita ayuda para usar su Chromebook, correo electrónico u otras herramientas en línea? Consulte estos recursos recomendados por el personal de CUSD 10:

• Ayuda con la tecnología
• Guía de Google Classroom para Padres de Familia

Extensión de transcripción de voz en Google Chrome:  Mote

Un sitio bilingüe para educadores y familias de estudiantes de inglés (inglés y español):   https://www.colorincolorado.org/

Libros multilingües gratuitos en línea: Biblioteca digital infantil internacional 

Libros en dos idiomas con audio en inglés y otros 14 idiomas (incluidos ASL y navajo):  http://uniteforliteracy.com/

Visit the CUSD 10 Virtual STREAM Room

Click HERE to visit the Virtual STREAM (Science Technology Reading Engineering Art Math) Room created by CUSD 10 STREAM Specialist Mrs. Stuppi.  Activities include virtual field trips, puzzles, coding games, books to read, art lessons and much more!

Learn to access Reading Materials with Hay-Man, I Need Help!

The post Learning Resources/Help appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

April 17, 2020

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Today, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker announced our buildings will not reopen and Remote Learning will continue until our last day of student attendance on May 22, 2020.    

We are saddened our buildings will not reopen the remainder of the school year, but understand the safety and well-being of our communities is a priority.  The district remains committed to continuing our Remote Learning efforts and making the most of a challenging situation. We would also like to extend our appreciation to parents and families.  Your efforts to partner with our teachers to ensure Remote Learning has a positive impact have been remarkable. We appreciate the teamwork!  

Since Remote Learning began at the end of March, changes and updates have occurred.  Please visit the  www.kahoks.org homepage to access the latest information related to the district’s Remote Learning Plan, reporting Chromebook problems, social emotional information and educational resources for families and teachers.    

The district’s commitment to continue meal distribution during the Stay-at Home Order has amounted to over 3,000 meals served daily and over 45,000 since March 17th.  We cannot say thank you enough to our partners at Sodexo, First Student and the numerous volunteers for their tireless dedication to ensure no students go without a meal.  Your efforts have been remarkable!     

The Collinsville High School Class of 2020 has experienced anything but a normal senior year during the Stay-at-Home Order.  Today’s announcement ensures our seniors will not walk the halls of CHS again in the weeks ahead. This breaks our hearts! In the coming days, alternative options for graduation will be determined to safely celebrate your accomplishments at CHS.  While we recognize this is frustrating, we also want to make sure we properly recognize your achievements.  

I want to encourage the rest of our students to stay actively engaged with your teachers and classmates in the weeks ahead.  This will help keep your minds active for when we return to school. Furthermore, social interaction is healthy for all of us even if it’s not face to face.  On behalf of our entire district, we miss you!

Collinsville CUSD #10 remains committed to feeding our students, providing regular communication, and engaging students in the weeks ahead.  Nothing about the current situation is easy, but let’s continue working together. Please stay safe and healthy!    

Dr. Mark B. Skertich
Superintendent

The post April 17, 2020 Update from Dr. Skertich appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

The educators were chosen by the CUSD 10 Technology Department for how they integrate internet safety concepts in their lessons.  The $100 prizes were presented by Director of Technology Derek Turner.

Internet Safety Pizza Party

During Internet Safety Month, the entire district focused on what it means to use technology responsibly and safely.  Students participated by making posters, coloring pages and reading information.  At CHS, students’ Chromebook backgrounds were changed to feature different online safety messages.

Classes with 100% participation earned a pizza party or Popsicles.  Teachers who participated were asked to share their activities and ideas to earn a chance at $100 for their classrooms.

The top 3 teachers who submitted concepts and met the criteria for consideration, were chosen to receive the $100 prizes.  Here are their ideas:

Debbie Kokotovich, 3rd Grade, Renfro Elementary School

Kokotovich & Turner

One way that I integrate internet safety into my classroom is through research projects.  Throughout the year, we research people, landmarks and animals.  Also, students like to research topics on their own.  There are many times we have to view several resources to get a variety of facts and information.  We talk about and practice viewing sites that are safe and appropriate.

We mainly view websites through safe search engines such as Kiddle, KidRex and Ducksters.  However, there are times when we need to use things like Google.  During these times, I stress to students to type “facts for kids” after whatever they are searching.  Also, I may get on various sites before I even introduce a lesson to see what will pop up.

Children today are always gaming online or watching videos on YouTube.  We have discussions about getting their parents’ permission when viewing things at home or not giving out personal information to anyone online, even if they seem honest.

In the area of emailing, there are times I monitor what students are sending to each other and whether or not they are using it as intended.  If not, we talk about how to use it appropriately and respectfully.

Becky Juelfs, English Department, Collinsville Middle School

Turner and Juelfs

Our current unit of study revolved around the memoir “A Mighty Long Way” by Carlotta Walls LaNier, describing her story as one of the Little Rock Nine in Arkansas when schools were first integrated.

Social media is a huge part of our students’ lives, but it was not even in existence for Carlotta.  If she had this sort of technology, would it have helped her cause, uplifting and encouraging her? Or would it have brought only more bullying than she experienced?

[Students were given] the journal topic: If social media had been present in Carlotta’s day, how might it have helped or hurt the Little Rock Nine as they attempted to integrate Central High?

Students [were also] encouraged to make posters to demonstrate an example of social media in a positive and negative way as it might have been used in Little Rock in 1957.

Several students had very thoughtful responses regarding the possibilities of extreme cyber-bullying.  I’m always grateful for ways to “bring home” our current studies to make them relate to the students’ lives, and this month’s discussion about Internet Safety easily enhanced the students’ studies, helping them relate to the injustice of bullying – both in 1957 and in current events today.

Vicki Fuhrhop, Business Education, Collinsville High School

Turner and Fuhrhop

In my Consumer Education classes at the high school, I have integrated a variety of lessons regarding Internet Safety.  All the resources I use are free and available for any teacher, in any school, in any school district to use.  Below are a list of resources, activities and lessons that I have already used or will be using in the future:

Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis Economic Education Department produces an array of free economics and personal finance lessons, activities and readings.  (Please note, teachers can sign up for a free EconLowdown Teacher Portal)

Here are the Fed resources I use in my class that pertain to Internet Safety:

• Five Tips to Protect Your Online and Financial FEDucation Video Series, Episode 4:
• Making Personal Finance Decisions, Unit 10 Protecting, Lesson 10A:  The Three D’s of Identity Theft.
• The Smart-Chip Credit Card: A Current Solution

In other business department courses that I have taught over the years, I have also used the following online learning program with students to encourage and teach Internet Safety.  This is also a free resource for any teacher:  Everfi Ignition Digital Literacy and Responsibility

A brand new resource that I have been introduced to and have not had the opportunity to use is the Cisco Networking Academy free, online self-paced course for those who want to explore the world of cyber security.

CUSD 10 has a special section on our website dedicated to Internet Safety.  It has many age-appropriate resources and tips.  

The post Teachers Win $100 Prizes for Internet Safety Education appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

KAHOKind is our district-wide initiative to promote social/emotional well-being.

Being KAHOKind means being kind to yourself and others. 

CUSD 10 is committed to the WHOLE Child Philosophy of Education.  We believe to be prepared for well-paying jobs and lifelong learning, children need personalized support, safe environments, good health and challenging learning opportunities.

The information on this page was recommended by our administrators and social workers to help parents and students learn more about a few important topics.

Please contact your child’s school for help with issues impacting your family.  Our school social workers have additional materials and can connect you with resources.  

FOR IMMINENT SITUATIONS, CALL 911. 

Virtual Calming Room

Visit the CUSD 10 Virtual Calming Room for resources, links and advice for managing emotions and feelings.

Suicide and Crisis Support

• Dial 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
• Text HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line
• Contact Safe2Help Illinois: Dial 844-4-SAFEIL, Text SAFE2 (72332), email HELP@Safe2HelpIL.com OR click the image below.

Social/Emotional Skills

• Parenting article from the US Dept of Ed:  “Friendships- Helping Your Child Through Early Adolescence”
• Videos from Brooks Gibbs, Social Skills Educator

Social Media

• Scholastic article “Talking with Teens About Instagram”

Bullying

Click image to access the toolkit

StopBullying.gov website

Cyberbullying: Identification, Prevention, & Response – Cyberbullying Research Center. 2019 Edition

Talking to kids about tragedies, grief and loss:

• American Academy of Pediatrics: “Talking to Children about Tragedies and other News Events”
• National Institute of Mental Health:  “Helping Children and Adolescents Cope with Violence and Disasters: What Parents Can Do”
• National Association of School Psychologists: “Talking to Children About Violence:  Tips for Parents and Teachers”
• Child Development Institute:  “How To Talk To Kids About Violence”
• Mental Health America:  “Talking To Kids About Fear And Violence”

The post KAHOKind appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

As part of its comprehensive implementation of the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), ISBE has introduced new standards for its Illinois State Report Cards which evaluate all public schools.

Every school has been given one of four summative designations:  Exemplary, Commendable, Underperforming and Lowest Performing.  The designations provide a public benchmark of each school’s progress toward the goal of preparing all students for success in college and career.  (Click here to view a detailed explanation of ISBE Summative Designations )

CUSD 10 2018 School Designations

Summative designations are based on a data set of 2018 PARCC, SAT and DLM-AA proficiency scores, growth (grades 4-8), English language progress to proficiency (grades 1-2), chronic absenteeism (grades 1-12), and ninth grade on track and graduation rates (for high schools only).  (Click here to view an explanation of ISBE Multiple Indicators of Student Success )

Exemplary:  A school that has no underperforming demographic groups at or below the “all students” group of lowest five percent of all Title 1 schools, a graduation rate of greater than 67 percent, and whose performance is in the top ten percent of schools statewide.

Commendable:  A school that has no underperforming student demographic groups at or below the “all students” group of the lowest five percent of all Title 1 schools, a graduation rate greater than 67 percent, and whose performance is not in the top ten percent statewide.

Underperforming:  A school in which one or more student demographic groups is performing at or below the “all students” group of the lowest five percent of all Title 1 schools.

Lowest Performing:  A school that is in the lowest-performing five percent of Title 1 schools in Illinois and any high schools that have a graduation rate of 67 percent or less.

The state’s new accountability system evaluates schools based on a fuller picture of school quality, including the performance of individual student groups and measure beyond test scores.

For example, ISBE has indicated Renfro Elementary School’s Underperforming designation is based on the performance of students who receive Special Education services at the school.  As a result, Renfro now qualifies for greater funding and supports to address the needs of those students.

The State of Illinois has initiated a new Evidence-Based Funding formula which drives resources to improve outcomes for those in greatest need of increased support.  The data collected by ISBE – and shown in the State Report Cards – will be directly linked to resources allocated to students.

CUSD 10 Perspective on Designations

The new Illinois school designations move beyond rating schools based solely on standardized test performance.  CUSD 10 has long advocated additional factors should also be included in the formula because socio-economic issues, student mobility and other community-related factors all play a role in student performance.

The Collinsville school district is dedicated to meeting the needs of every students no matter where they are on the academic scale or where their interests and abilities lead.  The new state report cards focus on data we have been using for several years to help improve outcomes for our students.  The 2018 summative designations depict our progress in meeting those needs.

“Our district’s decision making is strongly rooted in data,” says CUSD 10 Superintendent Dr. Robert Green. ”Over the past few years, we’ve combed through data to identify areas for improvement and initiated plans to address those areas.”

“We’ve implemented new curriculum, purchased supplemental materials for low performing students and focused efforts into ELL program initiatives.  We have allocated staff and financial resources from Title grants and Evidence-Based Funding,” according to Dr. Green.

“We are honored and proud of Webster Elementary’s designation as an exemplary school.  Webster’s leadership and staff excel in using the resources available to them to meet the needs of their students,” added Dr. Green.

“Our district collaborates within and across schools through Professional Learning Communities each week. The educators in our schools are fortunate to have access to colleagues who are generating positive results in classrooms right here in our community.”

Illinois State Report Cards

ISBE has compiled a report card for every school and school district.  Interactive report cards can be found at https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/.  The report cards show school data, including academic performance, school environment, educators, students and highlights provided by principals. The information is designed to help parents and communities act as informed partners in the education of children.

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“The Kahok family offers and embraces opportunities for everyone to reach his/her fullest potential.”

Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 is dedicated to meeting needs of EVERY student no matter where they are on the academic scale or where their interests and abilities lead.  We offer challenging academic courses, as well as innovative programs for children who are academically at-risk.  Our students and faculty earn honors in and out of the classroom.  Our schools focus on character education, promote volunteerism and encourage community involvement.

Our mission in the Collinsville Unit 10 School District is to create a school environment where children are intellectually challenged in ways appropriate to their individual strengths, needs and experiences. We are committed to the pursuit of academic excellence and the development of our students to their fullest potential by providing a variety of innovative experiences, a caring progressive staff and an involved community. In doing so, we strive to develop thriving individuals, responsible citizens and lifelong learners who will actively participate in their local and global communities.

Education in Collinsville dates back to the mid-1800s. Jefferson Elementary School now resides on the site of the first school opened in Madison County. Webster Elementary School was opened in 1873. In the early 1950s, Superintendent D.K. Darling oversaw the conversion of Collinsville’s separate dual elementary and high school districts into the unit district of today.

Today, Unit 10 covers 57 square miles, providing educational services to students from Collinsville, Caseyville and Maryville, as well as portions of Glen Carbon, Fairmont City and Granite City. The school district is comprised of eight elementary schools (grades K-4), one intermediate center (grades 5-6), one middle school (grades 7-8) and one high school (grades 9-12). Servicing over 6,500 students, Unit 10 employs a staff of approximately 470 certified and 290 non-certified staff members.

The district has a rich tradition of offering a quality learning experience to its students. Outstanding extra-curricular programs, including athletics, music and foreign language, as well as a multitude of student service organizations, help provide opportunities for students to develop skills and talents beyond the classroom.

Collinsville High School provides an excellent college prepatory program, including Advanced Placement and dual credit courses that offer challenging, undergraduate level curriculum where eligible students can earn credits and accelerated placement in college. Adjacent to CHS, the Collinsville Area Vocational Center offers a two-year, public vocational training center for junior and senior high school students from Collinsville as well as surrounding communities.

Our 1:1 technology initiative means all students in grades 5-12 receive individual Chromebook computers for use in the classroom.  Middle and senior high school students take them home to use as tools to complete homework and research projects.  Elementary students have access to classroom computers, computer labs and iPads.  Classrooms use state of the art technology including interactive projection systems and digital resources.  

Together with parents and the community, Unit 10 is working to ensure all students have the opportunity to meet their goals and aspirations. We celebrate the diversity reflected in our schools.  We have several bilingual classrooms, translators to help families and special programs for English Language Learners.  

Collinsville schools have a culture that encourages volunteerism and community service among students at all levels. We partner with local groups and organizations to teach responsibility, patriotism, care and concern.

We are Kahoks.  We are proud and strong.

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Level 5 is the highest designation for the Gateways Family Specialist Credential. Gateways credentials are recognized by the state of Illinois and are awarded through the Illinois Department of Human Services based on education level, knowledge, skills and experience in the family services profession. Allen holds a B.A. in Psychology and M.A. in Human Services from the University of Illinois at Springfield.

Gateways to Opportunity is a statewide system designed to support Illinois early care and education, school-age, and youth development practitioners. It is administered by the Illinois Network of Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies (INCCRRA). Funding is provided by the Illinois Department of Human Services Bureau of Child Care and Development, the McCormick Foundation and Grand Victoria Foundation.

Allen has been coordinator of Unit 10’s Pre-K and 0-3 Programs for the past 5 years. Under his supervision, the program recently earned a Blue Ribbon Affiliate designation from Parents as Teachers. To achieve this designation, an affiliate must meet or exceed 17 essential requirements and meet at least 75% of additional Parents as Teachers Quality Standards. Blue Ribbon affiliates are recognized as being exemplary, delivering high quality services for children and families.

In addition, the district’s Preschool for All program has earned Gold Circle of Quality status across all Collinsville schools that offer it: Webster Elementary, Renfro Elementary and Kreitner Elementary. ExceleRate Illinois is the stateåÕs quality rating and improvement system for early learning and development programs that serve children from birth to age five.

Gold Circle of Quality is the highest level that can be achieved. ExceleRate Illinois bases its ratings on a set of standards that focus on early learning and development and places a high priority on instructional excellence, family services, staff qualifications, professional development and program administration. Data is gathered through compliance factors and monitoring visits where trained assessors collect evidence

Allen says Collinsville’s Pre-K program is successful in part because of the dedicated teachers, staff and resources available to them as well as the support of the district’s administrators. Birth-Three and Pre-K initiatives in Unit 10 are dedicated to children with developmental delays. Those students who qualify receive assistance and educational interventions to help them improve in areas of need.

Allen says, Having early educational opportunities available to district students is just the beginning. Having quality programming — using research based and developmentally appropriate practices — is key.

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PARENTS – Take the survey now to submit your feedback to the school district at the following website: https://illinois.5-essentials.org/2012/

SPECIAL NOTE FOR CHS PARENTS – Collinsville High School resides in St. Clair County. If selecting St. Clair County at the end of the survey prevents you from submitting your responses, please select Madison County. Thank you!

The Illinois 5Essentials Survey (Organizing Schools for Improvement) provides a comprehensive assessment of school organizational culture with actionable reports to help drive school improvement on five indicators or essentials:

Effective Leaders
Collaborative Teachers
Involved Families
Supportive Environment
Ambitious Instruction

Illinois 5Essentials generates data that helps schools target resources and make decisions that help accelerate learning and test score gains. Illinois 5Essentials also demonstrates that teachers and students can play a crucial role in school reform: What they share about their schools reliably predicts whether those schools are likely to improve or stagnate.

Based on 20 years of research conducted by the University of Chicago Consortium on Chicago School Research in more than 400 schools, the 5Essentials have been shown to be strongly predictive of school improvement. Schools strong in 3 to 5 of the Essentials are 10 times more likely to improve student learning than schools weak in 3 to 5 of the Essentials. Those differences remain true even after controlling for student and school characteristics, including poverty, race, gender, and neighborhood characteristics. Strength on components within the Essentials also correlates with increased teacher retention, student attendance, college enrollment, and high school graduation.

The State Board has long understood that test scores alone do not offer the full picture of schools and learning, said State Superintendent of Education Christopher A. Koch. The Illinois 5Essentials Survey will finally help us paint that fuller picture of learning conditions and guide local and state improvement initiatives so that every student has access to a world class education.

The Illinois 5Essentials Survey, required to be implemented this school year by legislation passed in 2011, represents the first attempt by a state to administer a statewide survey of learning conditions to teachers, students, and parents. Statewide summary results will be shared with ISBE this summer. School-level results will be sent to schools this summer and will be part of the 2013 school report cards, typically released by ISBE at the end of October. Federal Race to the Top funds are covering the cost of the survey.

On behalf of the Illinois School Board of Education, UChicago Impact at the University of Chicago is providing Illinois 5Essentials to schools statewide. Teachers, students and parents may complete the Illinois 5Essentials Survey online. For more information visit: https://illinois.5-essentials.org.

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We’re putting together something we’ve never done before, said Fort, 17. Every day we’re doing something different and learning something new.

That kind of excitement and enthusiasm about learning is exactly why teacher Justin Cann proposed the project.

We’re trying to generate interest among the kids, he said.

Building motorcycles is just one of the innovative things the Collinsville Area Vocational Center is doing to increase student enrollment, which is currently at 363. With a budget of $1.6 million, the two-year public vocational training center offers 13 programs for juniors and seniors.

CAVC is open to students throughout the Metro East with districts paying CAVC $2,500 a year for each student. However after losing about 20 students from Edwardsville last year, the school is drawing students from just two other districts: Madison and Mascoutah.

But CAVC’s new director, Tricia Blackard, hopes to see that change soon. Blackard was an assistant principal at the high school for five years before being named the vocational center’s director this school year.

Blackard said CAVC’s goal is to have 20 percent of its student body come from other districts; the number now is about 16 percent. She said she’s been meeting with officials from other school districts and plans to use the resources of the Regional Office of Education to get the word out about CAVC.

The whole point of an area vocational school is for school districts to pool resources and share expenses, said Blackard, who headed Alton’s vocational school for 13 years before coming to Collinsville. I’m meeting with a variety of people to make them aware of what we offer. I’ve spent hours talking to superintendents over the summer and we hope to get two more (districts).

Blackard said she could not say which districts would possibly be coming on board until the details are finalized. She said both districts are located in Madison County.

This year, we opened it up for students to drive themselves, Blackard said. The districts are pleased because that helps alleviate transportation costs. Districts previously had to transport students to the school.

In addition to outreach, Blackard is overseeing facility upgrades and curriculum changes at the vocational center. New lifts have been installed in Automotive Repair, new appliances in Food Services and new hospital beds have been provided for the Certified Nursing Assistant Program.

And the Auto Body Repair program is undergoing a $205,000 renovation, which will include a brand-new paint booth with improved ventilation. Blackard said students in the program have not been able to paint an entire car in about five years because of the outdated equipment and ventilation system.

The vocational center is also looking at course changes. A new engineering program, which is in its inaugural year at the high school, will be in place at the vocational center next year and the center is looking to bring back its Building Trades program, which in the past allowed students to construct an entire house.

With the housing market the way it is, we’re being cautious, Blackard said. We’re looking at options like working with Habitat for Humanity or doing rehabs of foreclosures. We’re waiting to see what the enrollment numbers are.

Blackard said the CAVC is all about training students to be employable when they graduate.

We keep up with statistics from the Department of Labor for job availability, Blackard said. We’re trying to meet the needs of current business and industry.

To read more click:
http://www.stltoday.com/suburban-journals/illinois/education/collinsville-area-vocational-center-looks-to-increase-enrollment/article_4a2533f2-92e7-5797-be28-93b64c90653b.html

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